FUN FACTS:

  • Proud Mother and Wife: I’m a loving mom and wife, and my family is my greatest joy. We share lots of laughter, adventures, and plenty of love, and sometimes we are just exhausted and overwhelmed (and that is okay!).

  • Animal Lover: I’m the proud parent of two dogs and one cat, who keep me on my toes and remind me that life is always better with a furry friend.

  • World Traveler: Originally an immigrant, I’ve learned to embrace the beauty in all cultures: one passport stamp at a time.

  • Neurodivergent Vibes: Turns out, I’m neurodivergent with ADHD, and suddenly everything in my life makes so much more sense. It’s like my brain is a never-ending puzzle, and I’m here for it!

  • Brain Explorer: I’ve got a love affair with the brain. Seriously, I find it endlessly fascinating and love learning all the cool things it can do!

Hi, I’m Val!

MSW, LSW, EMDR Trained, Level 1 Theraplay® Trained

Child Therapist | Pronouns: she/her/hers

Associate Owner

Bilingual: English/Portuguese

Ages 5 - 17 + Caregivers | Caresource, Buckeye, UnitedHealth Care, & Self-pay

Dr. Stuart Brown spent his life researching the value of play across the lifespan. He found that there are 8 different ways we all engage in play - yes, even adults! According to his Play Personalities, I am:

• The Explorer: I love to see new places and people and be immersed in cultures. I value being able to learn about different ways of being and honoring the uniqueness of others.

• The Collector: I have a growing collection of water bottles, tattoos, and mementos from my travels.

About Val

I am a clinical licensed therapist with a Master’s degree in Social Work from Northern Kentucky University, licensed to practice in Ohio. I focus on meeting each client's unique needs, embracing a neuro-informed approach to help foster healing and resilience. I am certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), EMDR trained, and Level 1 Theraplay Trainined. Under the supervision of Candy Ultizsch, LISW-S, RPT-S, I’m pursuing my Registered Play Therapist credential to deepen my work with young clients. I believe in the power of neuro-informed care and trauma-informed care, integrating mindfulness and resilience-building techniques to support lasting healing.

As an LGBTQ+ ally and neurodivergent therapist, I deeply respect diverse journeys and welcome each client into a safe, inclusive, and empathetic space. My practice specializes in trauma-based therapy for children, adolescents, and adults, with a particular focus on supporting caregivers, those navigating the unique challenges of motherhood, and those impacted by immigration.

Outside of work, I enjoy traveling with my family and have a profound love for animals. These things add a joyful, adventurous spirit to my life and enrich my understanding of the unique experiences that shape us all.

Licensure and Certification

Licensed Social Worker (LSW) | S.2308948

EMDR Trained

Level 1 Theraplay Trained